Sunday, November 24, 2013

Beauty and the human brain

A recent report suggests*
a link between autism and synesthesia, a neurological condition in which stimulating
one sensory or cognitive pathway triggers involuntary experiences in a second
sensory or cognitive pathway.

The report is rudimentary in the extreme, being based on an
online survey. This is no surprise, since the whole question of synesthesia is largely
unstudied. That’s a pity, since managing neuroplasticity has so much potential
for some of the most intractable diseases we humans face. Who knows whether the
cures for Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s, ALS, or Huntington's might be found in the
ability of the brain to work along duplicate pathways?

Guitar, acrylic on canvas, by Erich H. (Autism Services of WNY)

When I read this story, my thoughts immediately went to a
young man I’ve known since before he was in short pants. It’s no surprise that
Erich can draw and paint beautifully. I’ve known his mother since she was in short pants and she’s a very
talented woman.

Batman and Tops with Hearts and Candy Bars, mixed media on
paper, by Erich H. (Autism Services of WNY)

I asked Erich’s mother if she thought synesthesia
contributed to Erich’s painting ability, and she answered, “Possibly. He does have
perfect pitch, too.”

Erich is hardly alone in being a talented artist with
autism. For the past decade, Autism Services
of Western New York has run an art program for its clients. Not only are
they exposed to various materials and resources, but their work is shown regularly
in commercial and public venues across the greater Buffalo area.

If you’re interested in seeing their clients’ work in a
real-world setting, check here for a list of
venues. If you’re on Facebook, like Autism Services of Western New York on your news feed.

Let me know if you’re interested in
painting with me in Maine in 2014 or Rochester at any time. Click here for
more information on my Maine workshops!